Two men have been jailed after a brutal raid on a home in St Leonard’s Park, East Grinstead. The victim, a man in his 30s, suffered horrific injuries after being viciously attacked inside his own house.
Violent Attack Triggered by Fake Car Crash Scam
It all kicked off on the evening of 3 December 2024. A man knocked on the victim’s door, claiming he’d accidentally reversed into the victim’s car. When the man stepped outside to check, three thugs forced their way inside.
What followed was a savage assault. Using pliers, the gang broke the victim’s nose, fractured cheekbones, smashed eye sockets, and even snapped a rib. The injuries were so severe he needed surgery.
The robbers made off with a small stash of cash, the victim’s mobile phone, earphones, and car keys.
Doorbell Cam Footage Seals the Crooks’ Fate
Sussex Police launched a manhunt after the chilling attack. Crucial doorbell camera footage caught two of the suspects lurking before and after the break-in.
They were identified as Steven Webb, 40, and Alan Smith, 21, both from Surrey. Police also confirmed Webb’s car was spotted in the area at the time.
The pair were arrested on 6 January 2025 and charged with robbery. They pleaded guilty on 22 July 2025 and were sentenced in February the following year.
Heavy Jail Terms and Restraining Orders for Home Invaders
- Steven Webb got 61 months in prison
- Alan Smith was sentenced to 46 months behind bars
- Both slapped with five-year restraining orders
Charges of grievous bodily harm were dropped but remain on file.
“This was a particularly serious attack using deception to get into a home,” said Investigations Supervisor Oli Robinson. “They even tried to smash the doorbell camera with a hammer, but the footage was already saved.”
This shocking case highlights the growing threat of distraction burglaries. It’s a stark reminder to keep home security tight—doorbell cams aren’t just for show, they catch criminals red-handed.
